The nurse is providing care for a client who is unconscious. What nursing intervention takes highest priority?
Maintaining accurate records of intake and output
Maintaining a patent airway
Inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube as prescribed
Providing appropriate pain control
The Correct Answer is B
A. Maintaining accurate records of intake and output: While monitoring intake and output is important for assessing fluid balance and kidney function, it is not as immediate a concern as maintaining an airway in an unconscious client.
B. Maintaining a patent airway: This is the highest priority because an unconscious client is at high risk of airway obstruction due to the loss of protective reflexes. Ensuring that the airway remains open is critical to prevent respiratory distress or arrest.
C. Inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube as prescribed: Inserting an NG tube might be necessary for feeding or draining gastric contents, but it is secondary to the more urgent need of ensuring a clear airway.
D. Providing appropriate pain control: Pain control is important but should be considered after addressing more immediate threats to the client's safety, such as maintaining a patent airway.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Are you frightened?" This response is empathetic but may inadvertently reinforce the client's delusional thinking by focusing on the fear rather than addressing the delusion.
B. "You know I'm not following you." This response directly challenges the client's delusion, which could provoke defensiveness and escalate the situation.
C. "You'll have to go into seclusion if you continue to threaten me." This response is confrontational and may escalate the situation further by implying a threat, which could increase the client's fear and anger.
D. "I'm sorry if I frightened you. I was returning to the nurses' station after going out for lunch." This response acknowledges the client's feelings without reinforcing the delusion and provides a simple, non-threatening explanation for the nurse's actions. It helps de-escalate the situation by maintaining a calm, non-confrontational tone.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Prothrombin level: Although checking coagulation levels like prothrombin time may be important, it is not the first-line diagnostic tool for determining the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic), which is critical for treatment decisions.
B. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray is not directly related to diagnosing or determining the type of stroke. It may be used for other purposes, such as assessing for respiratory issues, but it is not the priority in stroke diagnosis.
C. Brain CT scan or MRI: A brain CT scan or MRI is the most crucial diagnostic test to perform before initiating treatment for a stroke. This imaging helps differentiate between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, guiding the appropriate treatment approach.
D. Lumbar puncture: A lumbar puncture may be used in certain neurological evaluations but is not the first-line test for diagnosing a stroke. It is invasive and not typically performed in the acute setting for stroke evaluation.
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